Our Humanist Companions recently undertook pre-placement training with Social Health Australia and have all now begun their companioning journey. This program represents a practical expression of humanism, meeting people where they are, listening deeply, and affirming the dignity and worth of every individual. The kindness and care for others provided by our companions offers essential emotional support for people who might otherwise face loneliness or uncertainty alone. The program also strengthens Humanists Victoria’s commitment to social impact, demonstrating how humanist ethics can make a tangible difference in people’s lives through empathy, listening, and shared humanity.
Volunteer Lea England told us that the training was a valuable experience and described the fulfilment she has gained through her companioning journey.
“You go through your life going, “Oh, that sucks,” but there’s nothing you can do about it. I’m trying to find the little places where maybe I can do something,” she says.
Despite having done varied volunteer work in the past, Lea says that working with Humanists Victoria offers a unique experience.
“I’m excited to do it through this lens, with no expectation of anything other than two humans meeting,” she says. “And I think this is what that provides. It’s just meeting the person where they are with compassion and just listening. There’s something lovely about that in itself that I don’t quite know how to express.”
Fellow volunteer, Percy Corinne, is also looking forward to providing secular care, and believes that there should be more support available for people who are not religious.
“It’s insane to expect or to think that people only deserve support if they are a religious person,” she says.
“We need to make this accessible to people. It definitely does not need to come under religion.”
Percy says that despite currently working in the care space, she found that volunteering as a humanist companion offered a different perspective.
“In a day-to-day support level, they really nailed what is actually important to be providing people, and what’s actually important is being a good human and showing up, and being able to be really present.”
When asked what she is most looking forward to during the companioning process, Lea’s answer was simple.
“I’d just like to make someone happy, or feel listened to, or feel supported. Whatever it is that they need, if I’m capable of helping deliver that, then I think that’s the only happiness I need,” she says.
Humanists Victoria thanks Lea and Percy for volunteering their time and wishes them well for their companioning experience. We will be following Lea and Percy’s progress, so be sure to keep an eye on our socials and website for updates!